Awards which aim to praise individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to Sutton are now open.

Nominations for the annual Sutton Community Awards are now open, and available to people who live, work, study, or volunteer in the borough.

They aim to recognise those who have gone above and beyond in Sutton over the past 12 months, and there are six awards up for grabs.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on November 21 at Russettings in Worcester Road.

The closing date for nominations is October 28.

Here are the categories:

- Young outstanding achievement

Someone aged 21 and under who deserves recognition for a significant academic, artistic, cultural, or sporting achievement.

- Outstanding achievement

Someone aged 21 and above who deserves recognition for a significant academic, artistic, cultural, or sporting achievement.

- Improving lives with community spirit

This is aimed towards people who do more than what’s expected, going above and beyond.

Whether it’s improving others’ lives or making the borough a better place to live, they might be one you think who warrants this award.

It can be one person, a group, a business, an organisation, charity, or social enterprise.

- Keeping Sutton Safe

People who protect others from harm are wanted for this award.

Those eligible may work in the public sector, be part of a group or network dedicated towards keeping people in the borough safe, or work with emergency services.

- Outstanding volunteer

Maybe you know of a volunteer whose efforts are considered to be extraordinary. Then they could be selected for this award.

- Outstanding volunteer group

Similar to ‘outstanding volunteer’, if there’s a group you know of that goes above and beyond and sets a strong example then they are likely wanted for this award.

You can complete the nomination form by clicking here and scrolling down.

Mayor of Sutton, Cllr Steve Cook, said: “The Sutton Community Awards recognise individuals and groups who've made an exceptional contribution to making Sutton a better place to live, work and bring up a family.

“It's your chance to shine a spotlight on to those individuals and ensure your nominees efforts do not go unrecognised.

“Please get involved, make some nominations and let's have a really fantastic event this year.”